Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa
Federal Government has reinstated Nigerian history as a mandatory subject in the basic education curriculum to cultivate national pride, unity, and responsible citizenship among young learners.
The Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, announced this transformative reform in a statement released on Wednesday in Abuja by Mrs. Folasade Boriowo, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Education.
Alausa explained that the revamped curriculum aims to reconnect students with Nigeria’s rich heritage while fostering civic consciousness.
“For the first time in decades, Nigerian pupils will study Nigerian History continuously from Primary 1 through Junior Secondary School 3,” he said, highlighting the curriculum’s comprehensive scope.
He further noted that Senior Secondary School students (SSS 1–3) will engage with a new subject, Civic and Heritage Studies, which blends Nigerian history with civic education.
“This innovative approach ensures learners understand the nation’s story while cultivating the values of citizenship, responsibility, and service,” Alausa added.
The curriculum for Primary 1–6 will cover Nigeria’s origins, cultural heritage, traditional institutions, heroes, political evolution, colonial history, and post-independence governance.
For JSS 1–3, Civic and Heritage Studies will explore early Nigerian civilizations, pre-colonial states, West African empires, trans-Saharan trade, European contacts, amalgamation, the independence movement, and democratic governance, all infused with civic values to strengthen national identity.
Alausa described the reform as “a priceless gift to the nation,” emphasizing its role in inspiring pride, unity, and commitment to Nigeria’s progress.
Expressing gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for driving this initiative under the Renewed Hope Agenda, Alausa stated, “History is not merely a record of the past, but a vital foundation for shaping responsible and patriotic citizens.”
In a recent address, Tinubu underscored the importance of this reform, noting that reintroducing history would empower young Nigerians to appreciate their roots and contribute meaningfully to nation-building.
The Minister also highlighted that embedding civic education will equip students to respect diversity, uphold institutions, and actively contribute to society.
To ensure successful implementation, Alausa revealed that the Ministry has finalized the revised Nigerian History Curriculum for Primary 1–6 and JSS 1–3 and will work with stakeholders to provide resources, retrain teachers, and enhance monitoring frameworks.
He urged parents, educators, and communities to embrace this reform as a collective effort to raise patriotic and disciplined citizens.
